If you work around the fruit picking season in the different states, money should not be a problem. I would reccomend travelling with someone else as being more safe than by your self. Sometimes bus lines offer special rates for those whom want to travel whenever and wherever, but budget airfares are good these days as well. PLease Oh Please pack soap when you go. I have been in backpackers cars and had them staying with me and DAAAAAAAAAm do they smell, and these guys were family...
It is a great experience, you mature and learn things that otherwise would be out of reach in our normal daily lives.
Oh yes when you stay in backpackers motels keep an eye on your stuff things go missing, don't lend money unless you don't expect it back, and please don't fall for the $5 note on the bathroom floor,( o the times I fell for that one.... you'll end up "taking one for the team'" if you know what I mean.. Just jokes